Here is a summary of the major headlines and breaking stories from across Nigeria to start your Wednesday.
1. 2027: Opposition Coalition Gains Momentum
The political landscape is shifting as the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) officially released its timetable for the 2027 primary elections. The party has pegged the presidential expression of interest and nomination forms at a combined ₦60 million. This comes amid reports that Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to formally declare his presidential ambition tomorrow, May 14, at Mapo Hall in Ibadan.
2. Naira Records Gains Against the Dollar
The Nigerian Naira saw a positive shift this morning, appreciating slightly in both the official and parallel markets. In the official NFEM window, the Naira traded at an average of ₦1,373/$1, down from ₦1,375 yesterday. At the black market, rates stabilized between ₦1,395 and ₦1,405, narrowed by increased liquidity and Central Bank interventions.
3. Tinubu Advocates for Africa in Kenya
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attending the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, has called for a total reform of the global financial architecture. The President noted that Nigeria is projected to spend $11.6 billion on debt servicing in 2026 alone—nearly half of the nation’s projected revenue—arguing that high interest rates are starving African industrial sectors of much-needed capital.
4. Nollywood in Mourning: Alexx Ekubo Passes Away
Tragedy has struck the Nigerian entertainment industry following the reported death of popular actor Alexx Ekubo. The actor reportedly passed away at the age of 40 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to pay tribute to the “Johnny” star, describing his passing as a “colossal loss” to African cinema.
5. Security: Military Air Strike in Zamfara
Reports reaching us indicate that over 70 people were killed following a military air strike that hit the Tumfa market in Zurmi LGA, Zamfara State. While the military continues its offensive against bandit strongholds, the unintended casualties have sparked fresh debates regarding the intelligence-led nature of operations in the Northwest.
6. Wike Visits APC Chairman Amid Rivers Tension
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike paid a strategic visit to the National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, in Abuja. This meeting comes at a time of heightened tension in Rivers State, particularly following the APC’s screening of aspirants for the State House of Assembly elections and the defection of key political stakeholders.
7. NUT Decries UTME Waiver for Colleges of Education
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has expressed strong disapproval of the Federal Government’s decision to waive the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) requirement for admission into Colleges of Education. The union argues this move could further lower the standard of teacher education in the country.
8. National Assembly Moves on Data Protection
The Senate and House of Representatives are set to review the National Data Protection Act to combat emerging cyber threats. This follows a rise in digital fraud and the need to secure the personal data of Nigerians in an increasingly digital economy.
